Everton news: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Dominic Calvert-Lewin claim after what he saw v Newcastle
Dominic Calvert-Lewin “changed the whole dimension of the game” for Everton after coming off the bench against Newcastle United.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old’s availability will be “massive” for the Toffees’ chances of survival.
Calvert-Lewin entered the fray at Goodison Park with 14 regulation minutes left to play and registered a crucial assist for Alex Iwobi as 10-man Everton defeated Newcastle 1-0 on Thursday (17 March).
The England international has been plagued with injury problems this term which have allowed him to make just nine league starts.
Whelan insisted Calvert-Lewin’s introduction was “desperately needed” with the Magpies on top in the closing stages of Thursday’s game.
“Throughout the whole game, the energy and work ethic was clear to see for Frank Lampard,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“However, the one thing they were lacking was that focal point. Newcastle had it with Joelinton and with Chris Wood.
“Having him on the pitch means they aren’t afraid of putting the ball in the box because he’s deadly in the air – he’s got a great leap and technique.
“When he came on, he gave them that focal point they had been missing for 70 minutes – and it was clear to see for everybody.
“Keeping him fit is massive for Everton, and that showed last night. He brought a different kind of energy and a more effective style of play to the game – and that was desperately needed, because Newcastle were on top.
“He changed the whole dimension of the game in Everton’s favour.”
Everton sit 17th, three points clear of the Premier League drop zone.
Calvert-Lewin has netted just three goals this term.
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